Work sequence

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2002 Volkswagen Jetta, 2002 Volkswagen GTI, 2001 Volkswagen Jetta, 2001 Volkswagen GTI, and 2000 Volkswagen Jetta. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

Valve lifters must be replaced as units (they cannot be adjusted or repaired).
Intermittent valve noises during engine startup are normal.

Start engine and let it run until coolant fan has turned on once.
Increase engine speed to approximately 2500 rpm for 2 minutes.

If the hydraulic lifters continue to make noise, find the faulty lifter as follows:

Remove cylinder head cover, refer to Cylinder head cover, removing and installing .
Turn camshaft at vibration damper fastening bolt clockwise until valve lifter cams being tested are in upper position.
Determine clearance between cams and valve lifters.
If clearance is greater than 0.2 mm, replace valve lifters. If clearance is less then 0.1 mm or no clearance is determined, continue test as follows:

Fig 1: Pressing Valve Lifter Downward Using Wedge

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Push valve lifters downward with a wooden or plastic wedge. If you can feel unrestricted motion of more than 0.2 mm until valve opens, replace lifters.

NOTE:

After installing new valve lifters, do not start the engine until after about 30 minutes. Hydraulic balancing elements must become properly seated (otherwise, valves will make contact with the piston).